A YOUNG girl has been sexually assaulted and robbed as she made her way home from the school.

The 12-year-old was attacked on common land near to Chadwick Walk, Hardwick, Stockton, at around 4.20pm yesterday (Tuesday, October 23).

The girl, who was wearing her school uniform, was stopped by her assailant who rifled through her bag before sexually assaulting her.

The man is described as being aged in his thirties with dark skin, possibly of Asian appearance. He is of average build and has a scar above one eyebrow and a large earring in one of his ears. He was wearing a black hooded top and a black baseball cap.

Detective Sergeant Chris Barker of Stockton CID said: “This was a terrifying experience for a young girl and it is very much a rare occurrence. We ask the local community of Hardwick to be vigilant and anyone who can offer any information as to the identity of this man is urged to contact police immediately.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact DS Barker of Stockton CID on the non-emergency 101 number or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.